Lilian Hsu

FROM June 5 to 14, 31 international students from six prestigious universities — the University College London, University of Southampton, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, University of Pisa, Technical University of Darmstadt, and Russia’s National Research University Higher School of Economics — gathered at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (CUHK-Shenzhen) for the 2025 Summer Study Tour.

Focused on tech innovation and Chinese culture, the 10-day program featured three core modules: cross-cultural exchange, academic and technological exploration, and urban-cultural immersion. With visits to Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, the tour offered students a firsthand experience of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s unique blend of cutting-edge innovation and rich cultural heritage, fostering deeper understanding and dialogue among global youth.

Hosted at CUHK-Shenzhen’s Diligentia College, participants engaged in interactive activities such as ice-breaker games, ukulele lessons culminating in a group performance of the classic Chinese folk song “Jasmine Flower,” and hands-on workshops on traditional Hanfu attire and ceramic art. A Shakespearean drama session further enriched cross-cultural collaboration.

In Guangming District, students explored the Guangming Urban Planning Exhibition Hall to learn about China’s urban development strategies and enjoyed a stroll through Hongqiao Park, witnessing the city’s dedication to green ecosystems.

They also experienced a traditional qilin (Chinese unicorn) dance performance and tried polishing chopsticks and crafting fans decorated with calligraphy.

A visit to the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub highlighted Shenzhen’s breakthroughs in technology and entrepreneurship, while the Shenzhen Institute of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics for Society (AIRS) impressed students with advanced robots designed for bridge construction, biomedicine, and water rescue.

The summer study tour underscored the GBA’s role as a center for innovation and cultural exchange, leaving participants with lasting memories.